CIVILENG 4002 - Finite Element Theory and Practice

The objective of this course is to provide students with a thorough understanding of the theory of Finite Element Method and its and application to structural element problems. Topics include basic concepts of continuum mechanics with a focus on elasticity theory and energy principles; shape functions for higher and lower order triangular, rectangular, tetrahedral, hexahedral and isoprametric elements; Newton cotes and Gauss quadrature techniques for numerical integration; formulation of different finite element matrices for plane stress, plane strain, axisymmetric, plate bending and shell structures; mesh refinements and convergence study. Students will develop their own computer program and will also use commercially available finite element software for analysing different type of structures.